Lesson Plan Overview
Another great way to engage your students by creating a storyboard that uses Shakespearean vocabulary. Many students struggle with common Shakespearean words. Getting students to use them in context before reading is an excellent way to cultivate vocabulary comprehension. In the example below, students created storyboards using standard Shakespearean terms.
In a Shakespearean vocabulary board, students can use the words in a sentence they create, or they can pick a phrase from the play. In the example storyboard, the student has chosen to create their sentences for their words:
- Marry - Indeed:
"Then they asked me if that was the word of the Prince, and I replied, 'It was marry!'"
- Pray - To hope:
"I pray the nurse comes quickly with good news!"
- Sauce - Sassy:
"The saucy porter wouldn't let me in without a password."
- Thou - You (used for one person who is the subject of a sentence):
"If thou hast a cold come see me... the friendly apothecary!"
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map storyboard for Shakespearean vocabulary words and phrases.
- Identify unfamiliar words or phrases that Shakespeare uses.
- Type each into the title boxes.
- Briefly describe the meaning of the word in the description box.
- Create a standalone comic in each cell that has the word in a sentence in a speech or thought bubble.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Word meanings are clear and correct. | Word meanings are mostly correct, but some are unclear or incorrect. | Most word meanings are unclear or incorrect. |
| Sentence | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | Most words are used correctly, but some of the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | Most vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Comic Visualization | Storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
Lesson Plan Overview
Another great way to engage your students by creating a storyboard that uses Shakespearean vocabulary. Many students struggle with common Shakespearean words. Getting students to use them in context before reading is an excellent way to cultivate vocabulary comprehension. In the example below, students created storyboards using standard Shakespearean terms.
In a Shakespearean vocabulary board, students can use the words in a sentence they create, or they can pick a phrase from the play. In the example storyboard, the student has chosen to create their sentences for their words:
- Marry - Indeed:
"Then they asked me if that was the word of the Prince, and I replied, 'It was marry!'"
- Pray - To hope:
"I pray the nurse comes quickly with good news!"
- Sauce - Sassy:
"The saucy porter wouldn't let me in without a password."
- Thou - You (used for one person who is the subject of a sentence):
"If thou hast a cold come see me... the friendly apothecary!"
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map storyboard for Shakespearean vocabulary words and phrases.
- Identify unfamiliar words or phrases that Shakespeare uses.
- Type each into the title boxes.
- Briefly describe the meaning of the word in the description box.
- Create a standalone comic in each cell that has the word in a sentence in a speech or thought bubble.
Lesson Plan Reference
Student Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Word meanings are clear and correct. | Word meanings are mostly correct, but some are unclear or incorrect. | Most word meanings are unclear or incorrect. |
| Sentence | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | Most words are used correctly, but some of the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | Most vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Comic Visualization | Storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
How Tos about Shakespearean Vocabulary Activity
How to Incorporate Shakespearean Vocabulary into Classroom Games for Deeper Engagement
Bring learning to life by turning vocabulary review into a fun, interactive experience. Games help students remember new words and make lessons more enjoyable.
Choose a Game Format That Fits Your Class Size and Style
Decide between whole-class games like “Vocabulary Bingo”, small-group competitions, or quick-fire partner challenges. Matching the format to your students boosts participation and excitement.
Prep Materials with Key Shakespearean Words and Meanings
Create word cards or digital slides using your target vocabulary. Include definitions or example sentences to support comprehension and reinforce usage.
Model Gameplay and Provide Clear Instructions
Demonstrate how to play by walking through a round with the class. Show expectations and answer questions so students feel confident and ready to participate.
Celebrate Success and Encourage Creative Use of Vocabulary
Recognize student effort with praise or small rewards. Invite students to use new words in stories, skits, or conversations to solidify learning and boost confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shakespearean Vocabulary Activity
What is a Shakespearean vocabulary storyboard activity?
A Shakespearean vocabulary storyboard activity is a lesson where students illustrate unfamiliar Shakespearean words or phrases in a visual format. Students create comics or storyboards using each term in a sentence, helping them understand and remember the language before reading Shakespeare's plays.
How can I help students understand Shakespearean words before reading?
To help students understand Shakespearean words before reading, have them identify unfamiliar terms, define them, and use them in sentences or storyboards. Visual activities like vocabulary boards make meanings clear and boost confidence when encountering these terms in the text.
What are some common Shakespearean vocabulary words students struggle with?
Common Shakespearean vocabulary words students may find challenging include marry (indeed), pray (to hope), sauce (sassy), and thou (you). Engaging activities help students use and remember these terms in context.
What is the best way to create a visual Shakespearean vocabulary lesson?
The best way to create a visual Shakespearean vocabulary lesson is to have students make a spider map or comic storyboard. Let them pick unfamiliar words, define them in their own words, and use each in an original sentence with an illustration or speech bubble.
Why is using Shakespearean vocabulary in context important for students?
Using Shakespearean vocabulary in context helps students develop comprehension, builds confidence, and makes the language less intimidating. Applying terms in their own sentences or storyboards ensures students can recognize and understand these words during reading.
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